007870   Qin W;Ming-Xing H;Ying X;Xin-Shen Z;Fang C (Coll Life Sci, Sichuan University, Chengdu-610 065, PR China, Email: cfnag@236.com ) : Expression of a ribosome inactivating protein (curcin 2) in Jatropha curcas is induced by stress. J Biosci, Bangalore 2005, 30(3), 351-7.

Open reading frame (ORF) encoding curcin 2 was cloned from total genomic and cDNA of Jatropha curcas leaves, which were treated by drought, temperature stress and fungal infection, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR amplification. The ORF has 927 bp that encodes a precursor protein of 309 amino acid residues. There are high similarities with curcin and the conserved domain of ribosome inactivating proteins (RIPs). Antiserum to curcin recognized one band of 32 kDa on Western blot of the leaves treated by temperature stresses at 4°C and 50°C and by fungal infections of Pestalotia funerea, Curvularia lunata (Walk) Boed, Gibberelle zeae (Schw.) Petch. Two bands of 32 kDa and 65 kDa were recognized on Western blot of the leaves treated by 10%-40% polyethylene glycol (PEG). In addition, the 32 kDa band is nearly the molecular weight of curcin 2. This finding suggests that the protein of 32 kDa should be related to curcin 2. The presence of this protein molecular marker under stresses may provide an experimental foundation to study the stress proteins in J. curcas.

4 illus, 20 ref

007869   Punzo F;Parker M (Dep Biol, , Box 5F, University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida 33606, USA, Email: fpunzo@ut.edu) : Effects of azadirachtin on mortality, fertilization, and swimming speed in larvae of the cane toad Bufo marinus (Anura: Bufonidae). J envir Biol 2005, 26(4), 687-91.

Experiments were conducted to assess the effects of azadirachtin (AZ) on survival capacity, fertilization success, and swimming speed in larval stages of the cane toad, Bufo marinus. LC₅₀ values (96-hr) for various larval stages exposed to 0.50 mg/l AZ were as follows: 5.35 (stage 12), 5.77 (stage 16), 7.87 (stage 20), 13.43 (stage 24), and 21.54 (stage 30). Tadpoles did not exhibit any apparent disorientation or production of mucous in response to AZ concentrations ranging from 0.3 to 0.5 mg/l. Mortality was significantly higher at 0.50 mg/l AZ than at lower concentrations. At 0.50 mg/l, mortality rate decreased significantly from 36% for stage 12 tadpoles, to 24% for stage 20 tadpoles. Mortality for early stages (stage 12) dropped significantly, from 36% at 0.50 mg/l, to 21% at 0.40 mg/l AZ. There were no significant differences in percent mortality for any developmental stage at an AZ concentration of 0.3 mg/l, or for controls (no AZ). Exposure of gametes to 0.30 mg/l AZ did not reduce fertilization success as compared to controls (89.8 vs. 83.7%). At 0.40 mg/l, percent fertilization decreased significantly (68.8%). This effect was even more pronounced at 0.50 mg/L. No significant difference was found in swimming speeds between controls and subjects exposed to 0.30 mg/l AZ. However, at a concentration of 0.40 mg/l, tadpoles required a significantly longer period of time to swim a distance of 140 cm as compared to controls. The potential impact of AZ on amphibian populations is discussed.

1 tables, 7 ref

007868   Prema P;Palavesam A;Balaji P (P.G. Dep Microbiol, V.H.N.S.N. College, Virudhunagar - 626 001, Email: prema-drprema@yahoo.com) : Aerobic heterotraphic baeterial diversity in sediments of Rajakkamangalam estuary, south west coast of India. J envir Biol 2005, 26(4), 729-34.

Abundance of aerobic heterotrophic bacterial population in the sediment sample of six experimental stations (S1 to S6) at Rajakkamangalam estuary was studied for a period of one year from March, 1998 to February, 1999. The important bacterial genera encountered were Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Vibrio, Escherichia, Micrococcus, Enterobacter, Salmonella, Aeromonas, Shigella, Klebsiella, Proteus, Alkaligenes, Staphylococcus, Citrobacter and Flavobacterium. The bacterial population based on numerical counts showed wide fluctuations in their distribution at different stations. Among the bacterial genera Pseudomonas was found to be the dominant genus during the experimental period. The qualitative and quantitative distribution of microflora in the sediment samples are discussed.

2 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

007867   Prasad M G;Verma S;Dahiya S (Dep Anim Buiotechnology, College of Veterinary Sciences, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar 125 004, Email: gaya@hau.ernet.in) : Detection of avian rotaviruses from diarrhoeic poultry in India. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(3), 205-09.

Investigation was carried to understand the prevalence of avian rotaviruses in young poultry birds in Haryana. During 2001-2002, 345 faecal samples from different poultry farms showing symptoms of enteritis were examined for avian rotaviruses. The RNA extracted from faecal suspension was subjected to RNA-PAGE and silver staining. Eighty (23.19%) samples were found positive for avian rotaviruses by PAGE showing separation of 11 dsRNA segments. The migration of 11 dsRNA segments was in an electropherotype pattern of 5:1:3:2, which is typical of avian rotaviruses. The segment 5 was very close to segment 4 and segment 6 was distantly located. The segments 10 and 11 migrated very closely as compared to mammalian rotaviruses. The segments 7,8 and 9 in all avian strains migrated in a triplet which is characteristic of group A rotaviruses. This is probably the first report of detection of group A avian rotaviruses in poultry in India. Four different electropherotype patterns based on VP7 gene variations encoded by genomic segments 7, 8 or 9 were observed. These VP7 gene based variations in electrophoretic migration patterns suggested genomic diversity among avian rotaviruses. The ability to characterise individual virus strain by genetic analysis of their dsRNA migration pattern could be potentially useful in epidemiological investigations.

3 illus, 37 ref

007866   Prabhdeep Kaur;Gupta A K;Narinder Kaur (Dep Biochem Chem, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: nkaur@rediffmail.com) : Embryo is not required for initiation of α-amylase activity in germinating cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) seeds. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2005, 42(3), 161-5.

When embryonated and de-embryonated cotyledons of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) were kept for germination, only embryobnated cotyledons (EC) developed into seedlings. α-Amylase activity appeared late in de-embryonated cotyledons (DEC), but increased and matched with that of EC on 4th day, and thereafter started declining. A higher content of reducing sugars may be one of the factors in down regulating the activity in DEC after 4th day, in comparison to EC, where it continued increasing. Addition of GA₃ to DEC did not increase the activity significantly, suggesting that GA₃ was not a limiting factor for amylase initiation. Addition of 1 mM chlorocholine chloride (CCC) to DEC decreased activity by about 50%, suggesting that GA₃ might partly be synthesized in the DEC and hence the activity could be initiated independent of embryo. However, for mobilization of starch, amylase activity has to be sustained for a longer period, for which sink strength in the form of shoot and root is essential. Unlike cereals, where embryo is required for induction of amylase, the process of amylase induction in germinating cowpea seeds appear to be different. Purification of α-amylase from EC and DEC by DEAE-cellulose and Sephadex G-150 column chromatography revealed three peaks in EC, and only one in DEC, indicating that gibberellin present in DEC could induce only one form of amylase. Amylase from DEC had higher K_m value (0.33 mg ml^-1 of starch), as compared to the corresponding K_m value in EC (0.11 to 0.16).

1 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

007865   Poonkothai M;Hemaiswarya S;Kavitha D (Dep Biochem Biotechnol, Avinashilingam Deemed University, Coimbatore-641 043) : Antibacterial activity of Withania somnifera. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 97-9.

Chloroform, ethanol and aqueous extracts of the roots of Withania somnifera were investigated for antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae. Pseudomonas aeruginosa Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi. Among the various extracts, maximum antibacterial activity was exhibited by ethanol extract (26, 18, 23, 19, 18 and 26 mm) followed by chloroform extract (15, 13, 16, 15, 10 and 13 mm) and then aqueous extract, which had no activity. The good bactericidal activity is due to the presence of withanolides, which makes it an alternative medicine in treating infections caused by the above microbes.

1 tables, 7 ref

007864   Petrus A J A;Seetharaman T R (Dep Chem, Kanchi Mamunivar Centre for Post-Graduate Studies, Pondicherry-605 008, Email: ajapetrus@hotmail.com) : Antioxidant flavone C-biosides from the aerial parts of Alternanthera pungens. Indian J pharm Sci 2005, 67(2), 187-93.

From the 2-butanone fraction derived out of the aqueous alcoholic extract of the fresh aerial parts of Alternanthera pungens, three C-glycoflavones, vitexin (1), isovitexin (2) and orientin (3) and an yellow solid composed of their 2"-O-β-D-glucopyranosides (4-6) were isolated and characterised. Fully assigned sets of proton and carbon resonances, based on detailed 1D and 2D NMR measurements, including ₁H COSY, HMQC and HMBC experiments, enabled the deduction of definitive evidence for the C- and the O-glycosidic linkages of the three biosides. Antioxidant potential of these six compounds was evaluated using two different assays, namely, the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity and the coupled oxidation of β-carotene and linoleic acid (autoxidation) assays. Compounds 3 and 6 were fairly active while the others were mildly active in both the assays.

5 illus, 2 tables, 34 ref

007863   Patnaik L;Sukla L B;Kar R N (Dep Biomineral Biotechnol, Regional Research Laboratory, Bhubaneswar, Orrisa-751 013, Email: lups_pp@yahoo.com) : Growth of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans in different media and leaching of sphalerite concentrate. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(4), 285-90.

Studies on the growth of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans in terms of ferrous iron oxidation rate and cell count in four different broth media revealed that the medium proposed by Barron and Luecking (medium B) had the best bacterial growth compared to the other three media. The iron oxidation rate constant was 0.536 with a cell count of 7.1 x 10⁷ mL^-1. Leaching of sphalerite concentrate and pure ZnS at initial iron free condition in each of the four media was studied. Zinc leaching after 49 d from sphalerite concentrate (76, 61.97, 56.92 and 33.09) showed better bacterial leaching compared to ZnS (21.4, 18.9, 14.7 and 6.36) in all the four media tested. Medium B was found to be best for zinc bioleaching with T. ferrooxidans.

2 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

007862   Pandya G M;Singh S;Joshi C G;Rank D N;Khanna K;Barot V N;Solanki J V (Poultry Complex, College of Vet Sci & Anim Husb, GAU, Anand, Gujarat) : Association of LEI-146 and MCW-43 microsatellites with body weights in bantam, bantamised white leghorn and white leghorn chicken. Indian J Poult Sci 2005, 40(1), 9-15.

Microsatellite markers have been studied for their association with growth traits in chicken. The object of the study was to investigate if the autosomal dwarf (adw) locus which is located in close proximity of LEI-146 and MCW-43 microsatellites, is associated with small body size of Bantam chicken. The samples were collected from 21 Bantam, 26 white leghorn and 35 Bantamised white leghorn birds and microsatellite analysis was carried out by 7% denaturing PAGE. Three and four alleles were found with LEI 146 and MCW-43 markers, respectively. The birds with having: 1,1 and 1,3 genotypes for LEI-146 marker, had lowest body weight at all the ages, while birds with genotypes 2,2 and 3,3 were having highest body weight at all the ages. Birds with 1,3 and 4,4 genotypes for MCW-43 markers were having highest body weight while birds with 1,2 and 2,3 genotypes were having lowest body weight at all the ages. Although the results point towards the association of these microsatellite loci with the body weight, they were statisticaly non-significant.

3 illus, 6 tables, 9 ref

007861   Nair R;Chanda S (Dep Biosci, Saurashtra University, Rajkot-360 005, Email: sumitrachanda@yahoo.com) : Antibacterial activity of Punica granatum in different solvents. Indian J pharm Sci 2005, 67(2), 239-43.

The antibacterial activity of leaf of Punica granatum was investigated. Different solvents used were, water, ethanol, methanol, acetone, propanol, 1, 4-dioxan, N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF) and benzyl alcohol. The selection of solvents was on the basis of their polarity. The antibacterial activity of six clinical strains (S. paratyphi, S. aureus, S. epidermidis, E. aerogenes, P. aeruginosa and B. subtilis) was determined by growth inhibition using Agar ditch diffusion assay. The aqueous extract was able to inhibit only B. subtilis and S. aureus and was ineffective against all the other four bacterial strains. On the other hand, organic solvents proved much better in inhibiting the studied bacterial strains except benzyl alcohol extract which was ineffective against all tested bacterial strains. Among the various solvents, 1,4-dioxan proved to be best while propanol was least effective. Finally, E. aerogenes was found to be most resistant bacteria, while S. aureus, S. epidermidis and B. subtilis were most susceptible.

3 illus, 19 ref

007860   Nair M B;Latha M S (Sch Biosci, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam-686 560, Email: mslathas@eudoramail.com) : Glutathione antioxidant status of frozen meat samples. J envir Biol 2005, 26(4), 681-5.

Lipid oxidation is a process, which results in rancidity and deterioration of fats posing a major problem in food industry. Antioxidants are of interest, which presumably protects food from oxidative deterioration during storage. The glutathione antioxidant system of different meat samples were noticed for six months under refrigerated storage. Activity of glutathione reductase (GR) and level of glutathione (GSH) decreased during six months storage in all the four meat samples. The glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and glutathione -S -ransferase (GST) activity increased gradually during storage. It seems possible that glutathione antioxidant system protected the meat samples against quality loss during its storage.

4 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

007859   Naidu V S G R;Panwar J D S;Annapurna K (NRC Weed Sci, , Maharajpur, Adhartal, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh-482 004, Email: annapurna93@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of synthetic auxins and Azorhizobium caulinodans on growth and yield of rice. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(3), 211-13.

Effect of synthetic auxins, 2,4-D (0.5 ppm), NAA (8 ppm) and IBA (8 ppm) with and without the inoculation of Azorhizobium caulinodans on nodulation and nitrogenase activity in rice was tested under hydroponic conditions using N-free Hoagland medium. Nodule like structures (para-nodules) were found on the rice roots treated with synthetic auxins irrespective of the presence or absence of the bacteria. Induction of nitrogenase activity was observed in all the inoculated treatments with enhanced activity in the treatments involving the combination of the auxin application and Azorhizobiiim inoculation. Seedlings with nodulated roots were transplanted to pots for studying the effect on growth and yield. Auxin treatment along with Azorhizobium caulinodans inoculation enhanced the growth and yield parameters.

^ssc2 tables, 18 ref

007858   Nagaraja P A;Mathew T;Shetty D P (Dep Microbiol (PAN TM) Cardiac Suregery (DPS), Narayana Hrudayalaya, Bangalore-560 099) : Candida tropicalis causing prosthetic valve endocarditis. Indian J med Microbiol 2005, 23(2), 139-40.

Incidence of endocarditis produced by the so-called "opportunists" as a complication of prosthetic valve surgery is progressively increasing in frequency and gradually transforming the clinical picture habitually associated with this disease. Candida endocarditis is an unusual but severe complication caused by Candida albicans or other fungal species. The case and a review of the literature indicate that Candida endocarditis treated with amphotericin B and prosthetic valve replacement may recur months after treatment, and that late recurrent Candida endocarditis, which is difficult to diagnose and treat, may be best prevented by lifelong antifungal suppressive therapy.

^ccr8 ref

007857   Musaddiq M;Joshi S D;Bipte S R (P.G. Dep Microbiol, Shri Shivaji College, Akola-444 001) : Drug sensitivity of chlorine resistant Escherichia coli isolated from drinking water sources. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 131-3.

Total of 62 E. coli strains were isolated amongst chlorine resistant bacteria from different water sources of Akola city. The isolates were identified and were typed into 10 serogroups. The serogroups 08, 060 & 068 occured frequently followed by serogroups 014 and 0102. In vitro drug sensitivity of these isolates revealed cent percent sensitivity to no single antimicrobial drug. Highest susceptibility was observed to Ciprofloxacin, Gentamicin, Norfloxacin and Trimethoprim.

^ssc1 table, 17 ref

007856   Mohammed Rafi M;Charyulu P B B N (Dep Microbiol, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur-515 003) : Phyllosphere of foxtail millet (Sttaria italica (L) Beauv) as a habitat for diazotrophic bacteria and facultative symbiotrophic associations. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 47-52.

Bacteria were isolated from the phyllosphere of foxtail millet at 15 day intervals. The bacterial isolates varied in their efficiency to fix nitrogen. Of the 10 selected isolates of bacteria, only 7 isolates were diazotrophs with 5 isolates exhibiting appreciable nitrogen fixation. Further, the isolates obtained from the phyllosphere of 45 day old plants showed maximum nitrogen fixing efficiency. Most of the axenic bacterial isolates were identified as Beijerinckia indica. Facultative symbiotrophic associations isolated from the phyllosphere also exhibited appreciable nitrogen fixing activity.

3 tables, 35 ref

007855   Misra A K;Verghese S K (Dep Bot, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, Meghalaya-793 022, Email: arvindkmisra@nehu.ac.in) : Some aspects of actinorhizal symbiosis. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(4), 235-46.

Recent developments in the field of isolation, culturing, morphology and systematics of Frankia and host-microsymbiont interaction including nitrogen fixation have been reviewed. Special emphasis has been laid on the molecular approaches to identification of Frankia using 16S rRNA and nif genes.

2 tables, 95 ref

007854   Mishra A M;Chaube R;Adak D K (NO, Researcher in Anthropology at H.S. Gour University, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh) : Palmar interdigital ridge counts among the Brahmin of Madhya Pradesh. Indian J phys Anthrop Hum Genet 2005, 24(1), 79-86.

Study deals with palmar interdigital ridge counts of the Brahmin of Madhya Pradesh. The study reveals no bilateral and bisexual difference except the bilateral difference in b-c ridge count among males. For the sake of comparison four different population groups have been considered in the study.

8 tables, 8 ref

007853   Minakshi;Yadav A S;Vashishat R K (Dep Genet, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004, Email: yadavattar@hau.nic.in) : Correlation among azide resistance, rate of respiration, cytochrome c-oxidase activity, ATP concentration and symbiotic effective in Mesorhizobium ciceri. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(3), 185-90.

Twenty-five fast and slow growing strains of Mesorhizobium ciceri were tested for sodium azide resistance. Resistance to azide among these strains varied from 5-50 μg ml^-1. The levels of azide resistance were higher in fast growing strains than in slow growing strains. Fast growing strains resistant to 40-50 μg azide mL^-1 and slow growing strains resistant to 10-15μg azide mL^-1 induced higher shoot dry weight and per cent shoot nitrogen in chickpea-plants. The cultured cells of these strains also had maximum rate of respiration (both on per cell and dry weight basis) and cytochrome c-oxidase activity than the strains resistant to other levels of azide. The ATP concentration in cell free extracts of all the strains was almost similar.

4 tables, 37 ref

007852   Mehta A;Ferosh S;Singh A;Sharma A;Mehta P (Lab Microbiol Dep Bot, Faculty of Life Sciences, Dr. Hari Singh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar-470 003, Email: archuunisagar@yahoo.com ) : Isolation and characterization of extracellular protease producing bacteria. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(4), 277-80.

One hundred and twenty different bacteria were isolated from three selected sites of drain discharging Daphrin Hospital effluent into Sagar lake. All the isolates were purified and screened for the production of protease. On the basis of colony size, texture, microscopic characteristics and screening for protease enzyme, the isolates were categorized as proteolytic and non-proteolytic. Out of 29 protease producing isolates, ten were found good enzyme producers and 19 as poor. Three isolates, Planococcus sp. DH-2A, Planococcus sp. DH-5A and Micrococcus lylae DH-8C, which showed best enzymatic spectrum, had optimum enzyme activity in pH range of 7 - 8 and temperature of 40 - 50 °C. Metals like K₂HPO₄ and BaCl₂ reduced the enzyme production, whereas CaCl₂ and MgSO₄ increased. EDTA inhibited enzyme production much less in Micrococcus lylae when compared to Planococcus sp. (DH-2A) and Planococcus sp. (DH-5A) and therefore was not considered as serine protease.

3 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

007851   Malhotra R;Uppal Y;Mishra A;Taneja D K;Gupta V K;Ingle G K (Department of Community Medicine, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, Email: drrahulmalhotra@yahoo.com) : Increasing access to cataract surgery in a rural area-a support strategy. Indian J Publ Hlth 2005, 49(2), 63-7.

The objectives of the study were to elicit the reasons for not undergoing cataract surgery from those having cataract, aged 50 years and above, in a village community and, develop, implement and assess a support strategy for getting cataract surgery done. The leading reasons identified were monetary constraints (18.8%), transport difficulty (17.4%), lack of awareness about cataract in the eyes (17.4%) and lack of escort (14.5%). Based on the identified reasons, patients were transported in groups to a government eye hospital for free surgery after completion of required pre operative formalities at the village health center itself. Out of 65 eligible individuals, 66.2% underwent surgery. The success of the approach was evident by perceived improvement in vision in 88.4% operated patients, occurrence of only few minor complications and a satisfactory hospital experience being reported by all.

2 tables 13 ref

007850   Madhubala R;Bhadramurthy V;Bhat A I;Hareesh P S;Retheesh S T;Bhai R S (Div Crop Prot, Indian Institute of Spices Research, Calicut 673 012, Email: ishwarabhat@iisr.org) : Occurrence of cucumber mosaic virus on Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia Andrews) in India. J Biosci, Bangalore 2005, 30(3), 339-50.

Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) causing mosaic, leaf distortion and stunting of vanilla (Vanilla planifolia Andrews) in India was characterized on the basis of biological and coat protein (CP) nucleotide sequence properties. In mechanical inoculation tests, the virus was found to infect members of Chenopodiaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Fabaceae and Solanaceae. Nicotiana benthamiana was found to be a suitable host for the propagation of CMV. The virus was purified from inoculated N. benthamiana plants and negatively stained purified preparations contained isometric particles of about 28 nm in diameter. The molecular weight of the viral coat protein subunits was found to be 25-0 kDa. Polyclonal antiserum was produced in New Zealand white rabbit, immunoglobulin G (IgG) was purified and conjugated with alkaline phosphatase enzyme. Double antibody sandwich-enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) method was standardized for the detection of CMV infection in vanilla plants. CP gene of the virus was amplified using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), cloned and sequenced. Sequenced region contained a single open reading frame of 657 nucleotides potentially coding for 218 amino acids. Sequence analyses with other CMV isolates revealed the greatest identity with black pepper isolate of CMV (99%) and the phylogram clearly showed that CMV infecting vanilla belongs to subgroup IB. This is the first report of occurrence of CMV on V. planifolia from India.

6 illus, 5 tables, 23 ref

007849   Lokendra Singh;Alam S I;Waghmare C (Biotechnol Div, Defence Research & Development Establishment, Jhansi Road, Gwalior-474 002, Email: 1st2397@rediffmail.com) : Effect of freezing and thawing on consortium for night soil degradation. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(4), 299-302.

Anaerobic consortium for degradation of night soil was subjected to five cycles of freeze/thaw treatment. The performance of inoculum sharply declined after first cycle of treatment with gradual decrease after subsequent cycles. The deleterious effect of freezing was most pronounced for methanogens and sulfate reducing bacteria.

^ssc1 table, 9 ref

007848   Lee Y S;Choi K S;Kim M C;Han J C;Park J H; Shah D H;Chae J S (NO, Bio-Safety Research Institute, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 561-756, Korea) : Purification of outer membrane protein C (ompC) from Salmonella Gallinarum for characterization of its immunogenicity. Indian J Anim Sci 2005, 75(2), 164-7.

Fowl typhoid caused by Salmonella Gallinarum is a severe systemic disease of poultry characterized by high mortality, morbidity, reduced egg production and heavy economic losses due to culling of infected flocks. To investigate antigenicity and immunogenicity, outer membrane protein C (ompC) of S. Gallinarum was extracted, purified and characterized using SDS - polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, western immunoblot analysis and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. All the strains of S. Gallinarum tested showed presence of 39 kDa molecular weight ompC. Western blots revealed high intensity of reactivity of the ompC to anti-rabbit ompC sera and to sera from chickens infected with S. Gallinarum. The ompC (39 kDa) of S. Gallinarum effectively induces an immune response and this protein may have a potential for development of diagnostics and subunit vaccine.

3 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

007847   Lanjewar S B;Deshpande A R;Musaddiq M (P.G Dep Microbiol, Shri Shivaji College, Akola-444 001) : Assessment of antifungal potential of some plant extracts against Fusarium oxysporum. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 57-61.

Study was undertaken to evaluate the antifungal activity of some plant extracts against Fusarium oxysporum. Petroleum ether, acetone and 90% methanol extracts of nine plants were screened the presence of antifungal activity by cup-plate method. Extracts of six plants viz. Boswellia serrata, Holarrhena antidysenterica, Cassia fistual, Hemidesmus indicus, Delonix regia and Solarium nigrum showed significant antifungal activity against the test fungus. These extracts were further evaluated by poisoned food technique, which indicated the presence of fungistatic activity ranging from 13% to 46% growth inhibition. Maximum growth inhibition was recorded for methonolic extract of Hemidesmus indicus (46%) followed by methanolic extract of Boswellia serrata(40%).

2 tables, 21 ref

007846   Kurup R;Wadher B J;Tumane P M;Bhoosreddy G L (Post Grad Dep Microbiol, Nagpur University, L.I.T. Campus, Nagpur-440 033) : Isolation of mrsa plus vssa strains causing hospital infection. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 93-6.

Out of twenty seven pus samples collected from burns and orthopaedic units, ten samples were found to contain coagulase positive Staphylococcus aureus. Fifty percent of these Staphylococcus aureus strains were found to be resistant to methicillin (MRSA) while all Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated were found to be sensitive to vancomycin (VSSA) except strain No. 6 where an intermediate zone of inhibition was observed. The results indicate that the vancomycin is still highly effective against Staphylococcus aureus.

1 tables, 14 ref

007845   Kurhekar J V (Dep Microbiol, Dr. Patangrao Kadam College, Sangli-416 416) : Physico-chemical and microbial studies of sugarcane field soil. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 116-20.

Sugarcane field soil sample was studied with reference to various physico-chemical & microbial parameters and compared to a control soil sample in Sangliwadi area. It indicated high electrical conductivity in all the three seasons, pointing towards increased salt concentration & water-logging. Nitrogen, Organic Carbon & Manganese contents were found to be maximum in sugarcane field while Zn content was found to be low. Organo-phosphorous & Organo-chlorine contents were found to be detectable & maximum, as compared to control samples while enzymes nitrate reductase & dehydrogenase, which are responsible for soil fertility, are at low levels. All these parameters are found to influence micro-flora and enzyme activity of sugarcane soils.

2 tables, 13 ref

007844   Khurana S;Dubey M I;Malla N (Dep Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh-160 012, Email: drnancymalla@yahoo.com>) : Association of parasitic infections and cancers. Indian J med Microbiol 2005, 23(2), 74-9.

Recent advances in the fields of molecular biology, epidemiology and infectious diseases have led to significant revelations to clarify the relationship between cancer and infective agents. This article reviews the relationship between parasitic infections and carcingenesis and the possible mechanisms involved. Few parasites, e.g., Schistosoma haematobium and Opisthorchis viverrini have been found to be strongly associated with bladder cancer and cholangiocarcinoma respectively. The evidence for the association of several other parasites and cancers has also been postulated.

53 ref

007843   Khanam S J P;Agrawal S C;Jain P C (Dep Appl Microbiol Biotechnol, Dr. Hari Singh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar-470 003, Email: micjain@hotmail.com) : Keratin degrading and enzyme production ability of fungi from soil. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(4), 261-4.

Forty seven fungi isolated from soil using hair bait technique were tested for degradation of keratin and production of lipase and gelatinase. Most of the fungi degraded larger amount of hen feathers than human hairs. All the fungi produced lipase, while only 42 fungi produced extracellular protease (gelatinase). Scytalidium album MA3 caused a maximum of 57.5±0.04 percent degradation in hen feathers in 20 d at 28±2°C, while CHI and CH3 isolates of Chrysosporium, F7 and F8 of Fusarium and MI 3 of Microsporum degraded between 40 to 50 percent feathers in the same period. The importance of these fungal isolates in bioconversion of keratinic waste into value added products has also been discussed.

1 table, 21 ref

007842   Kestwal M R;Bhide S V (Div Biochem Dep Chem, University of Pune, Pune 411007, Email: svbhide@chem.unipune.ernet.in) : Purification and partial characterization of α-D-mannosidase from Erythrina indica seeds. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2005, 42(3), 156-60.

α-D-Mannosidase (EC: 3.2.1.24), a glycoprotein with 8.6% carbohydrate was purified (26 fold purification) to homogeneity from Erythrina indica seeds, by gel filtration on Bio-Gel P-100 and affinity chromatography on Con-A CL Seralose. The enzyme had the molecular mass of 124 kDa and 127 kDa by gel filtration and SDS-PAGE, respectively. The optimum pH and temperature for enzyme activity were found to be 4.6 and 50°C, respectively. The K_m value for the enzyme was 2.1 mM for p-nitrophenyl-α-D-mannopyranoside. The enzyme activity was found to depend on the presence of Zn²⁺. Chemical modification studies revealed the involvement of tryptophan, serine and cysteine for enzyme activity.

5 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

007841   Kadam A B;Waskar V S;Paturkar A M;Zende R J (Bombay Vet Coll, , Parel, Mumbai-400 025) : Bacteriological assessment of pig carcass sites during the slaughtering process. Indian J Anim Sci 2005, 75(2), 185-9.

Swab samples of pig carcass sites collected from slaughtered animals were analysed for pathogenic and spoilage organisms. Amongst slaughter operations, sticking showed maximum counts followed by transportation, retailing and evisceration operations and were considered to be the critical operations. Amongst the carcass sites jowl and rump showed maximum contamination irrespective of the operations. The prevalence of the various pathogenic and spoilage organisms varied throughout the operations.

2 tables, 17 ref

007840   Joseph J;Vemuganti G K;Sharma S (Jhaveri Microbiol Cent (JJ SS) Ophthalmic Path Services (GVK), Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation, LV Prasad Eye Institute, LV Prasad Marg, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad-500 034, Email: savitri@lvpei.org) : Microsporidia: emerging ocular pathogens. Indian J med Microbiol 2005, 23(2), 81-91.

Microsporidia are eukaryotic, spore forming obligate intracellular parasites, first recognized over 100 years ago. Microsporidia are becoming increasingly recognized as infectious pathogens causing intestinal, ocular, sinus, pulmonary, muscular and renal diseases, in both immunocompetent and immunosuppressed patients. Ocular microsporidiosis, though uncommon, could be isolated or part of systemic infections. It occurs mainly in two forms: keratoconjunctivitis form, mostly seen in immunocompromised individuals; stromal keratitis form seen in immunocomptetant individuals. Recent reports indicate increasing number of cases of ocular microsporidiosis in immunocompetent individuals. The ocular cases present as superficial keratitis in AIDS patients, and these differ in presentation and clinical course from the cases seen in immunocompetent individuals which mainly appear to be as deep stromal keratitis. For most patients with infectious diseases, microbiological isolation and identification techniques offer the most rapid and specific determination of the etiologic agent, however this does not hold true for microsporidia, which are obligate intracellular parasites requiring cell culture systems for growth. Therefore, the diagnosis of microsporidiosis currently depends on morphological demonstration of the organisms themselves, either in scrapings or tissues. Although the diagnosis of microsporidiosis and identification of microsporidia by light microscopy have greatly improved during the last few years, species differentiation by these techniques is usually impossible and electrorn microscopy may be necessary. Immune fluorescent staining techniques have been developed for species differentiation of microsporidia, but the antibodies used in these procedures are available only at research laboratories. During the last 10 years, molecular techniques have been developed for the detection and species differentiation of microsporidia.

9 illus, 1 table, 82 ref

007839   Jha M N;Prasad A N;Misra S K (Dep Microbiol Fac Basic Sci Humanities, Rajendra Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur-848 125, Email: raupusa@sancharnet.in) : Effect of micronutrients on diazotrophic cyanobacteria and yield of paddy. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(3), 171-4.

Effect of micronutrients on cyanobacterial growth, nitrogen fixation and paddy-yield was examined. Critical and toxic levels of Zn, Bo,Cu and Mn for ARA and growth varied with the micronutrient and cyanobacterium. Mn was observed to be least toxic while Cu was most toxic. Westiellopsis prolifica was highly resistant and Anabaena sphaerica was most sensitive to micronutrients. Nitrogen fixation was observed to be less sensitive than growth. In calcareous soil, the recommended level of zinc as ZnSO₄ (5 kg ha^-1) for paddy was favourable for ARA of autochthonous cyanobacteria. However, the recommended level (1.5 kg ha^-1) of boron as borax was found to be inhibitory. Foliar spray of 0.04% boron as boric acid was effective in augmenting cyanobacterial-ARA.

3 tables, 19 ref

007838   Jha G;Wadher B J;Tumane P M (P.G Dep Microbiol, Nagpur Uuiversity, L.I.T. Premises, Nagpur-440 033) : Individual and synergic antibacterial activity of Allium sativum and Allium cepa. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 24-7.

Clinical strains of Salmonella, Shigella and Vibrio, which were found to be resistant to one or more antibiotics and chemotherapeutic agents, were found to be inhibited by the crude extract of Allium sativum and not by Allium cepa. When the crude extract of Allium sativum and Allium cepa combined, the antibacterial activity was found to be decreased indicating the antagonist activity of Allium cepa.

2 tables, 14 ref

007837   Jeyasekaran G;Ganesan P;Jeya Shakila R; Maheswari K;Sukumar D (Dep Fish Processing Technol, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Tuticorin-628 001, Email: ttn_jerosh99@sancharnet.in) : Bacterial quality of tuna loins (Euthynnus affinis) stored in ice. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(4), 257-60.

Bacterial quality of tuna (Euthynnus affinis) loins stored in ice was investigated. Samples were found to be sensorially acceptable up to 15 and 11 d, when stored in ice immediately and after a delay of 6 h, respectively total bacteria in samples ranged from 10⁴ to 10⁷ cfu g^-1 and psychrotrophs from 0 to 10⁶ cfu g^-1. Total lactics were 10¹ to 10³ cfu g^-1 and histamine formers 10² to 10³ cfu g^-1. Total coliforms decreased from MPN 348 g^-1 to zero. Anaerobic sulphite reducers did not show any particular trend in both the samples.

1 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

007836   Jeya Shakila R;Aunto Princy Vyla S; Saravanakumar R;Jeyasekran G (Dep Fish Processing Technol, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu Veterinary and An, Tuticorin-628 008, Email: ttn_jerosh99@sancharnet.in) : Photobacterium leiognathi for bioassay of chloramphenicol residues in shrimps. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(4), 273-6.

Microbial assay was developed for the detection of chloramphenicol residues in shrimp muscle using luminescent bacteria, Photobacterium spp. isolated from marine fish. The assay was performed by pad plate technique. About 38% isolates showed minimum detection level of 2 μg mL^-1. Only one isolate (L-2) identified as Photobacterium leiognathi, showed minimum detection limit of 1μg mL^-1. Chloramphenicol spiked in shrimp muscle at concentration ranging from 2 to 100 μg mL^-1 was extracted using ethyl acetate and ammonia and the recovery was found to be about 88%. The results showed that P. leiognathi (L-2) could be used to screen chloramphenicol residues in foods.

2 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

007835   Jena S;Pattanaik B;Sahu J K;Adhikary S P (Dep Bot, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar-751 004, Email: adhikary2k@hotmail.com) : Salt stress induced changes in chlorophyll-a content and protein profile of cyanobacteria from different habitats. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(4), 295-8.

Salinity tolerance of Anabaena torulosa, Mastigocladus laminosus and Aulosira fertilissima, isolated from an estuary, hot spring and rice field respectivly was examined. Anabaena torulosa tolerated up to 1M NaCl and induced some new proteins upon exposure to high salinity. Mastigocladus laminosus survived up to 0.9M of NaCl. Several proteins were repressed at high salt levels and three low molecular weight proteins of 17, 30 and 31 kDa were induced, which probobly provided protection from salt injury. Aulosira fertilissima was susceptible even to 0.5M NaCl. In this organism none of the proteins were induced, rather two proteins were repressed on exposure to salt.

^ssc2 tables, 13 ref

007834   Jain M D;Ali Y A (Dep Microbiol, R.L.T. College of Science, Akola) : Anatomical anomalies in foliage of Pongamia pinnata (Linn.) affected by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 100-5.

Pongamia pinnata (Linn.), an ornamental tree possesses antimicrobial properties. Yet, it is susceptible to the disease crown gall, vectored by the bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Upon infection of plant, some strains of Agrobacterium induce abnormal cell proliferations which results in tumour formation in case of crown gall disease. When the differentiating study of anatomy of healthy leaf as against the anatomy of galls on leaf was carried out, considerable differences were observed. The tissue observed in the gall was completely disorganized as compared to the healthy leaf. In the centre of gall, cellulose fibres were found to be developed. The bacterium isolated from galls was found to be Agrobacterium tumefaciens.

6 plate, 11 ref

007833   Hossain S M J;Janardhana G R;Hossain M A (Dep studies Microbiol, University of Mysore, Karnataka) : Microbiological investigations on soiled paper currency. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 41-6.

Study was undertaken to find out the associated microorganisms in the soiled currencies of Mysore district, India. Paper currency is widely exchanged for goods and services in this country and in most countries worldwide. The studies conducted in this investigation revealed that significantly high number of microbial load was recorded in currencies of rupees One, Two and Five. Bacterial load was significantly higher in One Rupee samples followed by Two Rupees and Five Rupees samples. Gram's staining and other biochemical tests revealed the occurrence of Gram positive opportunistic pathogens such as Staphylococcus spp. Micrococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., Corynebacterium spp., Bacillus subtilis and Gram Negative bacteria Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp. etc. Several parastic fungi such as Penicillium peberulum Aspergillus candidas, Cladosporium spp. and Actinomycetes were also found.

2 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

007832   Hidalgo P C;Bengochea M;Abileira D; Cabrera A;Alvarez I (Laboratorio de Inmunogenetica e Histocompatibilidad, Banco Nacional de Organos y Tejidos, Hospital de Clinicas "Manuel Quintela", CP. 11600. Montevideo. Uruguay, Email: bnot@hc.edu.uy) : Genetic admixture estimate in the Uruguayan population based on the loci LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, GC and D7SD. Int J Hum Genet 2005, 5(3), 217-22.

Analyzes the allele and phenotype frequencies in five DNA loci: LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, GC, and D7S8 in a sample from Uruguay All the loci were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) except the D7S8 locus. The genetic admixture estimate showed evidence that the main genetic contribution comes from Europe with a small Amerindian and a minor African contribution with the admixture proportions: 84.1%, 10.4%, and 5.6% respectively. Genetic distances between the Uruguayan sample and several other Latin. American populations revealed the closest genetic relationship with the Argentinean capital city, probably because its common history and demographic, characteristics.

1 illus, 3 tables, 36 ref

007831   Gonenc A;Tokgoz D;Aslan S;Torum N (Dep Biochem Fac Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey, Email: aymelek@gazi.edu.tr) : Oxidative stress in relation to lipid profiles in different stages of breast cancer. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2005, 42(3), 190-4.

Changes in the levels of MDA, nitrite, vit. E, lipids (total cholestrol, and triglycerides) and lipoproteins (HDL and LDL cholesterol) were estimated among breast cancer patients, in relation to different clinical stages (stage I to IV). MDA and nitrite levels were increased in breast cancer patients, irrespective of clinical stage, as compared to controls (p<60>0.01). Their levels were also significantly elevated from stage III to stage IV (p<60>0.05). In contrast, vit. E levels were decreased in all stages, as compared to control group (p<60>0.05), the decrease was more pronounced in stage II and IV. Compared to controls, serum triglycerides were elevated in all patient groups (p<60>0.05): the maximum increase was in stage IV. HDL-cholesterol decreased in all stages, when compared with control group (p<60>0.05). These findings support the hypothesis that reactive oxygen and nitrogen species are increased in breast cancer, especially metastases and may cause consumption of vit. E.

2 tables, 48 ref

007830   Golakia P R;Makne V G;Monpara B A (Dep Genet Pl Breed, Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani, Maharashtra) : Heritable variation and association in virginia runner and spanish bunch group of groundnut. Natn J Pl Improv 2005, 7(1), 50-53.

2 tables, 7 ref

007829   Goel B et al (Medicinal Chem Div Dep Pharmac, L.L.R.M. Medical College, Meerut-250 004, Email: rajput_ak@indiatimes.com) : Synthesis and CNS depressant of newer spirobarbiturates. Indian J pharm Sci 2005, 67(2), 194-9.

In an effort to search for more active CNS depressants, a series of spirobarbiturates incorporated with thiazolidinones and azetidinones were synthesized and evaluated for their sedative, hypnotic and anticonvulsant activities. Starting bis compounds were prepared from the reaction of acetone and substituted aldehydes.These bis compounds on Michael addition with barbituric acid give rises to triones, which on condensation with NH₂NH₂.H₂O afforded which on reaction with different aromatic aldehydes afforded and Schiff bases. These on cyclocondensation with thiolactic acid and chloroacetyl chloride furnished the final products. Result of toxicity studies and central nervous system depressant activities of these compounds are reported. The structures of the products have been delineated by chemical reaction, elemental analysis and spectral studies.

1 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

007828   Ge S;Cheng X;Xue Z;Yang L;Zheng X (Res Cent Tobacco Hlth, University of Science & Technology, Hefei 230052, People's Republic of China, Email: xcheng@ustc.edu.cn) : Beta-aminobutyric acid-mediated enhancement of resistance in tobacco against TMV and consideration of its capability in wounded tobacco plants. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2005, 42(3), 166-72.

Systemic acquired resistance (SAR) is an important component of disease resistance arsenal of plants, and is associated with enhanced potency of activating local and systemic defense-related responses upon pathogen attack. It has been demonstrated that pre-treatment with β-aminobutyric acid (BABA), a new elicitor of SAR in the plants, enhanced resistance against tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) in a temperately-sensitive tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) cultivar Yunyan 85. The resistance is based on the elicitation of defense-related responses induced by BABA that brings the TMV-susceptible tobacco plants to a defense-ready state, even before exposure to the pathogen. The induced resistance was strongly associated with potentiated activation of defense-related enzymes [phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO)] activities, proportional to the concentration of the BABA sprayed. Interestingly, simultaneous clipping, an important agricultural practice in tobacco production, attenuated BABA-mediated enhancement of TMV resistance in tobacco. The changes in the defense-related enzyme activities indicated that the interaction between BABA and wounding was reciprocally antagonistic. Moreover, such a negative interaction regulated the expression of defense-related enzymes, depending on the time of induction.

4 illus, 32 ref

007827   Gayal S G;Hadge G B (NO, Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology, (ICAR), Post Bag No. 16640, Adenwala Road, Matunga, Mumbai-400 0l9, Email: sggayal@hotmail.com) : Scanning electron microscopic studies on the release of starch granules treated with cellulase of Penicillium funiculosum. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(4), 265-8.

Scanning electron microscopic study was employed to find out the effect of cellulase from Penicillium funiculosum on the release of starch from potato tissue. The results indicated that the starch granules were embedded in the cells of potato tissue and population of starch granules were the most conspicuous component of cytoplasm. Scanning electron micrographs of enzyme treated cells of potato tissue clearly indicated hydrolysis of cell-wall and cell-envelope.

6 illus, 13 ref

007826   Gaind S;Lata (Div Microbiol, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: skgaind105@sify.com) : Quantitative evaluation of exo-enzyme during composting. Indian J Microbiol 2004, 44(3), 175-9.

Extracellular enzymes produced during composting of urban and agricultural wastes were determined. The enzyme profile showed variation in abundance with change in substrate, decomposition stage and method of composting. Dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase were much higher in the agricultural compost where as cellulase and protease were more in amended city compost. Urease however, did not show any variation with change in substrate or method of composting. Most of the enzymes showed correlation with change in number of different microbial groups during composting. Phosphatase was inversely related to available phosphorus.

7 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

007825   Escalante M;et al (Laboratorio de Bioquimica Adaptativa Departamento de Bioquimica, Facultad de Medicina Universidad de los Andes, (ULA), Merida-5101, Venezuela, Email: antoniorod@cantv.net) : Effect of surfactants on Fenton's reagent-mediated degradation of Kraft black liquor. J envir Biol 2005, 26(4), 709-18.

One of the limitations of the biodegradation of hydrophobic chemical compounds like lignins, is their low solubility in the aqueous solution where this process takes place. To resolve this problem, Surfactants have been used to improve the solubility of these hydrophobic compounds. In this investigation, the effect of surfactants (anionic, cationic, and non-ionic) on the treatment of Kraft black liquor with Fenton's reagent was studied. In the Fenton reaction, H₂O₂ (two different concentrations, 10 mM and 20 mM), FeCl₂ (1 mM) and surfactant solution (10%) were used. Black liquor degradation was determined by UV/Visible spectrophotometry and by measuring phenolic groups. In the presence of Fenton's reagent, the optimum conditions for the oxidative degradation of black liquor were 10 mM H₂O₂, 1μL of 10% solution of anionic surfactant (SDS). The importance of the use of surfactants for preparing black liquor for subsequent Fenton's reagent-mediated degradation was discussed.

6 illus, 4 tables, 46 ref

007824   Dutta S K;Basu S K;Sen K K (Pharmacy Div, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Ashram More, G.T. Road, Asansol-713 301) : Physico-chemical aspects of protein binding of nimesulide. Indian J pharm Sci 2005, 67(2), 243-6.

The binding of nimesulide, a cox-2 inhibitor, to bovine serum albumin was investigated by equilibrium dialysis method at different temperatures and pH conditions. The Scatchard plots were prepared based on these drug-protein binding data. The number of binding sites (n), the value of association constant (K) at different conditions and different thermodynamic parameters (i.e., standard free energy change ΔG°, standard enthalpy change ΔH° and standard entropy change ΔS° of nimesulide-BSA binding were determined. The result shows that number of binding sites is around 2.5 and the value of association constant is decreasing with increasing temperature and pH. It also reveals that the value of ΔG° and ΔH° were highly negative and ΔS° was also negative. The result indicates that the interaction between nimesulide and bovine serum albumin is exothermic and spontaneous in nature. It is postulated that nimesulide-bovine serum-albumin interaction may occur due to hydrogen bond formation and ionic interaction.

1 table, 16 ref

007823   Dhingra J B;Verma N K;Behl R;Prasad S K; Ahlawat P S (NO, National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, P. Box No. 129, Karnal-132 001, Email: jyotsna@nbagr.ernet.in) : Phytomitogen induced changes in levels of inositol phosphates in the bovine lymphocytes. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2005, 42(3), 173-7.

Changes in levels of inositol phosphates and phosphoinositides were studied in the bovine lymphocytes, in response to phytomitogens (lectins)-concanavalinA (conA) and phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). Addition of conA and PHA resulted in a rapid increase in the cpm of total inositol phosphates (from 8599 ± 100 cpm/2 x 10⁶ cells to 11228 ± 126 cpm/2 xl0⁶ and 9758 ± 100 cpm/2 x l0⁶ cells, respectively) at 1 min after mitogen stimulation. There was a concomitant decrease in the phosphatidylinositol levels at 1 min, which continued up to 5 min. At 1 min of stimulation, inositol diphosphate fraction exhibited maximum increase, as compared to inositol mono- and triphosphates, suggesting that it contributed the most towards the overall increase in the total inositol phosphates levels. Results suggest that bovine lymphocytes respond to phytomitogens with a rapid turnover of phosphoinositides.

1 illus, 1 table, 44 ref

007822   Dhanasekaran D;Sivamani P;Girinathan N A; Panneerselvam A;Thajuddin N (Dept. Microbiol, Adhiparasakthi College of Scienc, G.B. Nagar, Kalavai, Vellore, Tamilnadu) : Screening and identification of antibiotic producing strains of marine streptomyces. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 62-6.

About 65 actinomycetes were isolated from nearly 32 soil samples collected from Cuddalorez east coastal region of Tamilnadu. The isolates were screened on the basis of their inhibitory effect against test organisms. Finally two potent antibiotic producers were chosen having maximum inhibitory effect on both gram positive and gram-negative animal pathogenic bacteria. On the basis of morphological, physiological, and biochemical characters, the potent antibiotic producers were identified as Streptomyces graminofaciens, S. lateritius.

3 tables, 11 ref

007821   Devarajan S;Sulaiman S M H (Dep Envir Sci, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 037) : Isolation and characterization of bacterial and fungal isolates from textile effluent contaminated soils. J microbial Wld 2005, 7(1), 77-81.

Biological decolourisation of textile dye effluents can be achieved by the use of a number of naturally occurring microorganism such as bacteria and fungi. A number of bacterial and fungal strains capable of degrading colour were isolated from textile dye effluent contaminated soil and out of which two each from bacterial and fungal strains were selected for further studies. The former four strains identified were two strains of Bacilius sp and two strains of fungal cultures of Trametes sp and Phanerochaete sp. Their taxonomical positions were determined by studying their morphological growth and biochemical characteristics.

1 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref